Cost of Living in Bellingham, WA

How far does a $70,000 salary go in Bellingham? Estimated income taxes on that gross salary total approximately $7,241 per year — Washington levies no state income tax, so that figure covers federal tax only. Subtract rent for a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,794/month based on HUD Fair Market Rents for the Bellingham metro area) and the estimated annual take-home is $41,231, or roughly $3,436 per month for everything else: food, transportation, savings, and discretionary spending.

The Bellingham metro has a cost of living index of 109.6 according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis Regional Price Parities (national average = 100). This puts Bellingham modestly above the national average on everyday expenses beyond rent.

At a $70,000 salary, the estimated 2-bedroom rent in Bellingham represents approximately 31% of gross income. That exceeds the conventional 30% guideline, meaning housing takes a significant share of the budget at this income level. Washington's zero income tax helps offset the rent burden compared to otherwise similar cities that also levy state income tax.